Whether you're looking for a classy sit-down dinner or a wild night you might not remember, Victoria's club, pub and restaurant scenes have plenty to offer New Year's Eve revelers looking to close out 2011 in memorable fashion. Here are a few of the city's hotspots, featuring everything from live bands to free bubbly:
CARNIE PARTY 2
Monty's Exotic Showroom Pub hosts the second annual NYE Carnie Party presented by Clove and Anchor Entertainment and Chop Shop Hair. With performances by Big John Bates, The Stockers, The Shakedown and Bloody Betty, champagne at midnight, and door prizes, the show offers a last chance to rock out before 2012.
Doors at 8:30 p.m.
Tickets: $20
THE FAIRMONT EMPRESS
The staff at the Empress will be pulling out all the stops as the clock winds down on 2011, with live music and dancing with Chris Millington and DANCIN! The hefty price tag guarantees one of two dinner options that will be remembered long into the new year. Reservations from 7 p.m.
Six course dinner: $200
Five course dinner: $160
THE FOX SHOWROOM
For those who feel that the fine art of head-banging is the best way to usher in a new year, The Fox will host metal act "Regular People" – a tribute to Pantera. Perhaps an uncommon way to celebrate the last night of '11, but the evening will still include the traditional champagne toast at midnight.
Doors at 9 p.m.
Tickets: $15 advance/ $20 at the door
THE MARINA RESTAURANT
Looking to escape the masses downtown? The Marina Restaurant offers a black tie and red carpet evening with dinner and dancing leading up to the big countdown. Their New Year's Celebration features the Sweet Pea Swing Band and seaside dining for those looking for a more sophisticated soirée than their club-hopping counterparts.
5 p.m. seating: $85
8:30 p.m. seating: $150
LOGAN'S PUB
The annual New Year's Eve bash at Logan's will, of course, boast live music in a great venue. The Poor Choices, Bells & Cannons and Spkrfkr, among others, will grace the stage throughout the night, as audience members raise their glasses to the new year. Open until 3 a.m.
Doors at 9 p.m., shows start at 10:30 p.m.
Tickets: $10
HUSH NIGHTCLUB
Open until 3 a.m., Hush is the downtown destination for those who want to stay out longer than the average partygoer. With danceable tracks provided by Bitchin', Lyssa, Moses and April-O, catered hors d'oeuvres, and personal bottles of champagne, there should be enough stimuli to get even the shyest guests dancing.
Tickets: $20
CLUB 9ONE9
The night's theme, "Party Like There's No Tomorrow," seems eerily prophetic given that most of the night owls in attendance may have trouble rising the next day. Tunes will be provided by DJ Reign and Marshall A, and party favours are on the house.
Doors at 9 p.m.
Tickets: $17 advance/$20
ATOMIC VAUDEVILLE
Lawrence Welk Presents: "It's the End of the World Sweeties," featuring the Mayans, at the Victoria Event Centre Dec. 29-31.
NYE Tickets (incl. bubbly): $45 regular; $35 AV members
(see Page 12 for more info)
CANOE BREWPUB
Music from the Sardines (Mike Hann and Tyler Harvey) will add a lively soundtrack to the laid back vibe at Canoe as patrons ring in the new year. Their full menu is available, and a complimentary glass of sparkling is included.
Doors at 6 p.m.
Tickets: $30
UPSTAIRS CABARET
New Year's Eve celebrations in The City That Never Sleeps are definitely worthy of emulation – maybe that's why tickets to this New York Lights fete started to sell almost a month in advance. After 1 a.m., Upstairs will honour stubs from any other NYE party for admission. Featuring the talents of DJ Speedyshoes and DJ Fatso.
Doors at 9 p.m.
Tickets: $30
THE V-LOUNGE
As metal-heads and their dates rock out downstairs at The Fox, guests at The V-Lounge will be able to enjoy snacks, champagne and prizes until the wee hours of the morning – their doors will stay open until 4 a.m. With free shuttle rides available and gratis hors d'oeuvres, this venue promises a bang for your buck.
Doors at 9 p.m.
Tickets: $12
HERON ROCK BISTRO
Guests at this James Bay eatery will get a choice of items from a special five course menu, including prosciutto wrapped halibut, New York steak and a host of tantalizing desserts. Featuring live music from 9 p.m., the spot is ideal for people looking for dinner and tunes, or just a show (non-dinner tickets are available).
Seatings from 5-6:30 p.m. and
8-10 p.m.
Tickets: $60
New Year's Day
Music for meditation
First Metro United Church
Jan. 1, 2 p.m.
Relax, reflect or nurse the results of the previous night's partying.
By Kate Shepherd